Exit

Author Archives: Alpha Packaging

  1. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Food Packaging

    Leave a Comment

    Choosing the right food packaging product for your food or beverage product is paramount to health and safety, as well as brand reputation. Here, we’ve compiled the main factors to assess when selecting food packaging for your application. From temperature control to industry-specific safety regulations, these considerations can help ensure food packaging is both safe and effective.

    Choosing the Right Materials For Food Packaging Safety

    The right packaging materials prevent spoilage and extend shelf life by protecting against a broad range of environmental factors. Barrier films like EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol) or multilayer structures can be very effective at keeping moisture and air out of different kinds of containers. Other key properties to look for in your food packaging material include:

    • Temperature resistance. Food-safe packaging must withstand temperature fluctuations during transport and storage, including refrigeration or freezing.
    • Durability. The packaging material should be strong enough to protect your product during each stage of its journey.
    • Chemical compatibility. Food packaging materials must not chemically react with the food or beverage product, as this could lead to spoilage and contamination.

    Maintaining Product Integrity For Food Packaging Safety

    Food packaging safety requires packaging that can protect food products from a range of factors such as: 

    1. Physical damage. Use robust materials like metal cans, rigid plastics, or reinforced corrugated boxes to safeguard from physical damage (e.g., punctures or crushing during handling and transport).
    2. Shock absorption. Cushioning materials (such as foam inserts or air pillows) can reduce impact damage from shocks and vibrations.
    3. Temperature fluctuations. Insulated materials are often necessary to maintain a food product’s intended temperature for extended periods.
    4. Product contamination. Aseptic packaging and processing techniques can eliminate the presence of various microorganisms to maintain sterility.
    5. Tampering. Tamper-evident seals and labels deter unauthorized product alteration and protect the authenticity of food and beverage products.
    6. Light and moisture. Light protection can shield food and beverage products from UV radiation that can degrade nutritional compounds and discolor products, while moisture barrier materials keep moisture out to reduce the risk of spoilage, degradation, and mold growth.

    Enhancing Shelf Life For Food Packaging Safety

    Advanced food packaging safety techniques provide comprehensive protection, thanks to a wide range of Food Safety Certified packages and containers:

    • Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP). MAP packaging replaces air with a specific gas mixture (often a combination of carbon dioxide, oxygen, and nitrogen), creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria, mold, and yeast. Fresh produce, cheese, baked goods, and meats often use MAP to maintain product freshness. 
    • Vacuum packaging. Vacuum packaging is also an effective way of preventing oxidation and product spoilage. This process involves removing all air from packages to minimize oxygen exposure and prevent microbial growth. 
    • Barrier packaging. These packaging materials create reliable barriers that minimize exposure to oxygen, moisture, and other environmental factors, extending food and beverage products’ shelf life. Barrier packaging materials include aluminum foil, nylon, and multi-layer films that incorporate materials like EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol).
    • Temperature control. Insulated containers and packaging materials are carefully designed to keep foods within their required temperature range.
    • Antimicrobials. Some food safety packaging challenges require the inclusion of antimicrobial agents to prevent microbial growth along the package’s surface.

    Food Safety Certification

    A food safety certification ensures your food and beverage packaging uses FDA-approved materials and techniques, which is necessary to meet rigorous industry regulations throughout the production process. At Alpha Packaging, we’re proud to be a Food Safety Certified manufacturer of food-safe packaging products such as: 

    • Custom corrugated boxes
    • Beverage carriers and trays
    • Fresh produce boxes
    • Box foam inserts
    • Cold chain packaging
    • Wholesale pizza boxes
    • Gaylord combo bins and other bulk packaging solutions

    Food Safety Packaging From Alpha Packaging, Inc. 

    The right packaging products can protect food and beverage products from spoilage, mold growth, and degradation to guarantee freshness and quality. At Alpha Packaging, Inc., we leverage our status as a Food Safety Certified packaging manufacturer and expert in custom package printing to provide fully curated food-safe packaging solutions. Our packaging products for the food and beverage industry address the widest possible range of food safety and spoilage concerns with moisture barriers, insulated packaging materials, tamper-evident closures and labels, and more.

    From robust barrier seals and insulated packaging to tamper-resistant seals, antimicrobial films, and vacuum packs, Alpha Packaging is a true leader in Food Safety Certification manufacturing. To learn more about our commitment to food safety packaging, contact us or request a quote to start on your next order.

  2. Packaging Automation Systems & Equipment Explained

    Leave a Comment

    Manual packaging systems can create a bottleneck and contribute to high labor costs in your operations. Automated packaging machines are designed to remedy these issues while enhancing packaging consistency. Packaging automation handles case erecting, packing, taping, and labeling more efficiently than manual labor.

    At Alpha Packaging, we’ve developed standard and customizable automated packaging solutions that cut down the time and cost of multi-stage packaging processes. Our robust packaging equipment includes 3M case sealing systems, Lantech packaging machinery, crush-resistant Emba by Ultima box folders, and more.

    Read on to learn more about these examples of packaging automation systems and the benefits of choosing packaging equipment from Alpha Packaging.

    What Are Packaging Automation Systems?

    Packaging automation systems use robotic machinery to complete packaging tasks with minimal human intervention. Automated packaging machines can package individual products in boxes as well as large pallets of goods at a lower cost, with less material waste, and with no risk of human error.

    The following automated case erectors, case sealers, stretch film machines, and box-making systems from Alpha Packaging are ideal for retail, food, and e-commerce industries.

    Case Erectors

    Automated case erectors can quickly fold and assemble flat cases into boxes. Our semi-automatic and fully automatic case erectors work fast to assemble up to 30 cases per minute without errors.

    Case Sealers

    Once each box is filled with the necessary goods, our case sealers seal them with the appropriate amount of tape. These machines pair well with case erectors to create a convenient, streamlined process. Our case sealers are easy to operate and require little maintenance.

    Stretch Film Machines

    Wrapping pallets of sealed cases prepares them for shipping and secure handling. Our stretch film machines quickly wind plastic films around regular and irregularly shaped loads to prevent slippage. We recommend using stretch film machines with pallet grip machines for a fully controlled process.

    Automated Box-Making Equipment

    Alpha Packaging partners with Emba by Ultima to provide automated box-making equipment. These machines can quickly produce corrugated cardboard boxes from flat cutouts, using a highly replicable process that preserves the geometry and strength of the box. Emba by Ultima machines also reduce material costs by not crushing the corrugated flute during box production.

    The Advantages of Crush-Resistant Boxes

    Crush-resistant boxes are vital to operations that rely on high stacking during transport or in warehouses. However, many machines on the market crush the corrugated flute during the box-making process, defeating the purpose of the corrugated box. Our Emba by Ultima machines create stronger, crush-resistant boxes without compromising the corrugated flute. As a result, our solution offers packaging lines and box users the following benefits:

    • Less material waste due to ruined boxes and packaging material
    • More sustainable practices and a better business reputation
    • Fewer box collapses and ruined products inside those boxes
    • More consistent and reliable delivery processes

    Sustainability and Long-Term Impact of Automated Packaging Solutions

    Automated machinery helps businesses with long-term sustainability goals. Our box-making and packaging automation systems reduce material waste and last longer. We test all of our boxes through Dynamic Stiffness Testing (DST) and Box Crush Testing (BCT) protocols to guarantee durability and strength. To learn more about the sustainability and cost-saving benefits of automated packaging solutions, including our crush-resistant box-making machines, download our eBook.

    Why Alpha’s Packaging Automation Stands Out

    Alpha Packaging partners with industry leaders to offer reliable equipment solutions, including innovative box-making machines like our Emba 245 QS Ultima. Our equipment is also cost-effective—your business can quickly recoup the cost of the initial investment by saving on manual labor and material waste. We can also customize automated packaging solutions for your specific needs, whether you are a major manufacturer or a small business.

    Cost-Saving Automated Packaging Solutions for Businesses

    Automated packaging equipment is a substantial investment, so Alpha Packaging offers a deferred payment plan for businesses to reap the benefits of automation as soon as possible. Rather than paying upfront for the equipment, our clients can pay incrementally by purchasing packaging materials like stretch film and boxes at a slight markup. This allows even small or growing businesses to benefit from the enhanced efficiency and productivity of automation with far less financial strain.

    Ready to Automate Your Packaging With Alpha Packaging?

    Upgrade your packaging processes today with automated packaging equipment from Alpha Packaging. Choose solutions like Emba by Ultima crush-resistant box-makers, Lantech case erectors, 3M case sealers, and more. Our team will work with you to create custom solutions powered by ArtiosCAD and provide deferred payment options so your organization can reap the benefits of automation without a large upfront payment. Request a quote today to get started.

  3. Alpha Packaging, Inc. Receives Pregis Renew Award for Reducing 25 Metric Tons of Carbon Emissions in 2023

    Leave a Comment

    We are thrilled to share that Alpha Packaging, Inc. has been recognized with the Pregis Renew Award for our commitment to reducing carbon emissions. This honor reflects not only our efforts but the vital role of our valued customers in achieving this success.

    Pregis Award

    By providing customers with Pregis PolyPlank® Renew foam made with recycled content, we reduced 25 metric tons of carbon emissions in 2023.

    Reducing 25 MT of carbon emissions is the environmental equivalent of1:

    • 1,086 trash bags of waste recycled instead of landfilled
    • 27,552 pounds of coal burned
    • 2,813 gallons of gasoline consumed

    To learn more about how to incorporate sustainable solutions into your operation, contact your local rep.

     

    1U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator. Retrieved 4-10-2024 , from https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator U.S.

  4. Difference Between Shrink Film and Stretch Film

    Leave a Comment

    Difference Between Shrink Film and Stretch Film

    Many types of goods are packaged or bundled with thin polymer films for protection during shipping and storage. Shrink film and stretch film are common examples, but they are made from different materials and serve different purposes.

    Here, we’ll look at how they differ, some available options, and how they are typically used in different industries.

    Difference Between Shrink Film and Stretch Film

    Shrink Film

    Shrink film, or shrink wrap, is a versatile packaging material that shrinks to mold to the shape of its contents when heat is applied. It is generally used to wrap single product items for individual sale or use. Shrink wrap plastic is available in center-fold or tubular forms on rolls, or as pre-measured bags in different sizes. Shrink wrapping produces a durable and clear barrier to protect the product inside while letting consumers see the contents.

    In general, the plastic must be heated to around 300°F to begin the shrinking process. Heat catalyzes the molecules in the film, causing them to align and shrink around the object. While it can be applied with hand-held heat guns, shrink wrap machines that cut and heat seal in one operation are more efficient. These use a conveyor or heat tunnel for quick and even heat distribution.

    Materials

    Shrink films are made from the following materials:

    • Polyethylene: A type of polyolefin often used with heavy products and for bundling; lower shrink rate than other options
    • Polyolefin: Safe for food and non-food products; strong and low-odor film; cross-linked polyolefin is highly clear and sterile
    • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Only for non-edible products; must be used with proper ventilation due to hydrogen chloride release; cost-effective

    In addition to the film material, there are several important considerations when selecting the most suitable shrink film for an application. These include film gauge (i.e., thickness), moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR), shrink temperature, shrink rate of the material, how much pressure the shrunken plastic applies to the product inside, and tear or puncture resistance.

    Applications

    Shrink film is used in many industries for a range of products such as:

    • Electronics
    • Food
    • Games & Sporting Goods
    • Hardware & Housewares
    • Printing & Paper Products

    Benefits

    Shrink film offers various advantages for packaging, including:

    • Cost reduction over boxes, cartons, and other options
    • Presentation of products in a tidy and secure package that can be seen through
    • Protection against component loss, breakage, or spoilage
    • Sustainability of recyclable plastic

    Stretch Film

    Stretch film, or stretch wrap, is a flexible and stretchable plastic film that can be wrapped around products to bundle and protect them during shipping and storage. It is often used to secure groups of boxes, bags, or single large objects on pallets. It can be applied by hand or with automated or semi-automated packaging equipment.

    Plastic stretch film is available in several gauges and widths and can be purchased pre-stretched for ease of application. Specialized types of stretch film are available for UV protection, ventilation, anti-static buildup, and color preference or opacity.

    Materials

    Stretch films can be made of several types of polyethylene, the most common being linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). Depending on the application, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) may deliver improved performance.

    Applications

    Stretch film is used in many industries for these and other purposes:

    • Pallet wrapping
    • Protecting items from dirt, dust, or moisture
    • Securing rolling or mobile items during storage and transportation
    • Color coding pallets or bundles, blocking UV exposure, or obscuring contents from view
    • Bundling small or like items for more efficient storage and shipping

    Benefits

    Stretch film offers several benefits, such as:

    • Cost-effectiveness
    • Durable product protection from tampering, loss, or damage
    • Efficient transportation and storage of goods
    • Recyclable plastic is sustainable
    • Reduces injury risk from falling products

    Why Choose Alpha Packaging, Inc.

    Shrink film and stretch film are two effective ways to package and protect items. Manufacturers and producers rely on them to minimize damage and loss and to keep products organized.

    Alpha Packaging, Inc. provides a full range of packaging supplies, products, and materials including shrink film and stretch film. We also manufacture corrugated board and cardboard boxes, mailers, shipping boxes, and pizza boxes. Additional services include custom packaging, printing, and foam inserts.

    Contact us to learn more about our catalog and manufacturing capabilities, or request a quote to get started today.

  5. Types of Eco-Friendly Packaging

    Leave a Comment

    Consumer demand for sustainable manufacturing practices and products continues to grow. Companies in turn seize the opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint and impact on the environment, and food and beverage products are no exception. Steps you take toward sustainability may also give you a boost with eco-friendly branding and messaging.

    Packaging is one of the most visible ways you communicate with your customers and entice new ones. If you’re just starting to adopt sustainable packaging or looking for new and improved options, Alpha Packaging can help. In this article, we’ll explore the definition of sustainable packaging and look at several examples for food and beverage producers.

    About Sustainable Food Packaging

    It’s easy to claim you use sustainable food packaging, but what does that really mean? While the goal is always to choose packaging that has the smallest impact on the environment, not all options are sustainable to the same degree. The best ones address several of these aspects of sustainability:

    • Packaging materials are recycled or have high post-consumer use content
    • New packaging materials made from renewable sources (i.e., plant fibers or resins)
    • Designs that reduce the overall amount of packaging material
    • Packaging production processes that minimize resource consumption (i.e., water, electricity)
    • Packaging that can be recycled, composted, or reused
    • Materials that do not pollute waterways or harm wildlife as they break down

    Benefits Of Sustainable Food Packaging

    Food and beverage manufacturers gain many benefits by investing in sustainable food packaging, such as:

    • Using sustainable packaging can reduce your brand’s overall carbon footprint and environmental impact.
    • Sustainable and compostable packaging has a premium appeal that enhances your brand’s image and appeals to consumers.
    • When eco-conscious consumers trust your commitment to the environment, they are more likely to buy and endorse your products.
    • Eco-friendly packaging is often lighter and more efficient to pack, saving you money on shipping.

    Types Of Sustainable Food Packaging

    A sustainable package is only a viable option if it is comparable to traditional packaging in terms of protecting contents from damage, keeping products fresh, and sealing against leaks and contamination. Fortunately, today’s sustainable food packaging selections stand up to this challenge.

    Glass Packaging

    Glass packaging is a trusted, durable material and is 100% recyclable. This means you can package your products in recycled glass containers, and then those containers can be recycled when they’re empty. This cycle can continue indefinitely.

    Types of Eco Friendly Food Packaging

    Kraft Paper Packaging

    Kraft paper packaging includes Kraft Paper for Void Fill, Grocery Bags, and Food Delivery Bags. It is a lightweight and versatile choice for filling in empty spaces in boxes, layering, and wrapping. Kraft paper is made from 100% recycled wood pulp, and can be recycled after use.

    Plant-Based Packaging

    Plant-based packaging includes Eco-friendly Loose Fill, Foam Wrap, and Cushioning Pads. These are made with renewable materials derived from plant starches and other organic vegetal matter.

    Compostable & Biodegradable Packaging

    Compostable and biodegradable packaging includes Corrugated Trash Cans, Biodegradable Ice Packs, and Honeycomb Sheets. Compostable foam wrap is a plant-based, protective packaging that can be used in multiple applications. It is typically composed of starches from plant-based sources and organic natural fibers. Using compostable packaging reduces your reliance on petroleum-based sources.

    Metal Packaging

    Reusable tins and boxes made from food-grade metal are strong and attractive options that many consumers gravitate toward (often because they plan to repurpose the container). Metal packaging can also include Food-grade Aluminum Foil. When properly cleaned, aluminum foil can be recycled. Metals, like aluminum, steel, and tin, can be almost infinitely recycled without compromising properties or quality. This reduces the need to extract and process virgin metals.

    Recyclable Packaging

    Recyclable packaging includes Tape, Void Fill, Insulated Containers, Thermo Chill® Cooler Boxes, and Paper Bubbles. Alpha Packaging manufactures custom recyclable packaging solutions, including plastic corrugated products, triple-wall boxes, and wholesale pizza boxes. Our kraft pizza boxes are a popular choice for packaging freshly made pizzas in a safe and earth-friendly packaging option.

    Sustainable Food Packaging Solutions by Alpha Packaging

    Alpha Packaging is committed to supplying packaging made with eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. We also offer a full line of plastic and corrugated boxes, inserts, and mailers along with custom services for packaging, foam, and printing.

    Whether you have a package design in mind or want to explore options, Alpha Packaging can help. Request a quote to speak with us about your sustainable food packaging needs.

  6. How to Recycle Corrugated Packaging

    Leave a Comment

    How to Recycle Corrugated Packaging

    With many industries striving to go green and reduce their carbon footprint, corrugated packaging has become a popular choice. This type of packaging is tough and sturdy which makes it great for shipping and packaging. Additionally, it is made from a combination of wood fibers and paper pulp, making it recyclable up to seven times. Recycling corrugated packaging reduces waste, conserves resources, and protects the environment.

    How to Recycle Corrugated Packaging

    Why is Corrugated Sustainable?

    The concept of sustainability is based on the idea that our existence depends on our natural environment and that it’s important to maintain conditions that allow us to coexist with nature in the present and future.

    Corrugated packaging is a sustainable option because it’s made primarily from trees, which are a renewable resource. According to Corrugated, this packaging has a high recovery rate of around 90%. In 2018, the corrugated industry was able to recover and recycle 96% of the old corrugated containers. Compared to other packaging materials, corrugated materials have an extremely high recovery rate, while plastic has a recovery rate of only about 15%.

    Moreover, corrugated packaging is biodegradable and can be recycled multiple times without losing strength or quality. This makes it a much better option compared to other non-biodegradable packaging materials that can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills and often release harmful chemicals into the environment.

    How to Recycle Corrugated Cardboard

    Most corrugated cardboard boxes are recyclable, with only a few exceptions. These boxes are commonly made from recycled materials, such as other corrugated boxes, which makes them one of the most environmentally friendly packaging materials available. The recycling process for corrugated cardboard is as follows:

    • Preparation: Remove additional packaging materials such as foam inserts, plastic wraps, or wood inserts to ensure that the recycling process only involves the corrugated box.
    • Cutting: Use a box cutter to cut the packing tape on the bottom and sides of the box to loosen it and make it easier to break down.
    • Flattening: Extend all of the box’s flaps and press it flat. This step saves space during transportation and makes storing the boxes easier until they are recycled.
    • Sorting: Check with your local recycling program to determine if corrugated boxes need to be separated from bottles and cans. If so, separate them accordingly.
    • Recycling: Place the broken-down corrugated box in the curbside recycling bin or take it to a recycling center and place it in the correct bin.
    • Baling (optional): Many recycling facilities use a baler machine to compact the boxes into dense bundles. This saves space, reduces the number of trips needed for transportation, and promotes more efficient use of resources.
    • Repulping: The bales are transported to a paper mill where the corrugated boxes are fed into a repulper and agitated to create a slushy mixture of fiber and water.
    • Contaminant Removal: The fiber solution is filtered to eliminate contaminants and poured onto a conveyor belt to create a seamless mat of fibers.
    • Slitting and Winding: The wet fiber is dried, rolled onto a large reel spool, slit, and rewound into individual rolls. These rolls are then shipped to sheet plants to be utilized as eco-friendly corrugated packaging.

    Alpha Packaging’s Sustainability Efforts

    At Alpha Packaging, we are committed to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. We recognize that corrugated cardboard is a greener alternative to plastic, which is why we use clean processing methods, to take our sustainability initiatives to the next level. Additionally, we prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials in our facility.

    We create corrugated containers that are made to be as environmentally conscious as possible, reducing waste, chemical impact, and the use of harmful plastics. Our boxes are biodegradable, which helps our customers and their end-users reduce their carbon footprint. We integrate green principles into our product development to ensure we are in line with the latest sustainability practices.

    We believe that our sustainability efforts will continue to expand as we integrate more green practices into our operation, helping preserve the Earth’s resources for future generations and keeping local communities cleaner.

    Go Green with Alpha Packaging

    When you choose products with eco-friendly packaging, you are helping to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. Request a quote or contact us today to learn more about our sustainable packaging solutions, and let us work together to create a greener future.